This itinerary pairs the gorilla trek with Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo, the striking twin lakes sitting directly beside Volcanoes National Park — a genuinely different, lesser-visited alternative to the more commonly featured Lake Kivu, without adding significant travel time.
Detailed Itinerary
Arrive Kigali, Transfer to Volcanoes National Park
Arrival and a short drive to Kinigi, evening trekking briefing.
Gorilla Trekking
Briefing, family assignment, the trek through misty volcanic slopes, one hour with the family.
As above
Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo Boat Excursion
A guided boat trip on the twin lakes directly beside Volcanoes National Park, with views back towards the Virunga volcanoes across the water — a genuinely striking, lesser-visited spot.
As above
Local Village Walk and Free Time
A guided walk through villages along the lakeshore, meeting local fishing communities, with free time to relax at the lodge.
As above
Return to Kigali, Departure
Drive back to Kigali, timed against your onward international flight.
Permits & Costs
| Gorilla trekking permit | $1,500 per person |
| Twin lakes boat excursion | Included in tour price |
Who This Itinerary Suits
Travellers who’ve done Lake Kivu before, or simply want a quieter, less-visited lakeside stop directly beside the trekking park rather than a further transfer.
Tour Includes
- Travel in a 4×4 safari vehicle
- Professional English-speaking driver-guide
- Gorilla trekking permit
- All accommodation per itinerary
- Meals as specified
- Boat excursion & village walk
Tour Excludes
- International flights
- Visas
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips & gratuities
- Travel insurance
A Quieter Alternative to Lake Kivu
Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo sit directly beside Volcanoes National Park itself, meaning no further transfer is needed after the trek — genuinely convenient, and considerably less visited than Lake Kivu, which most other Rwanda itineraries feature instead.
What to Pack
Sturdy hiking boots for the trek, comfortable clothing for the boat excursion and village walk, and a light rain jacket throughout.
Is there less to do here than at Lake Kivu?
Genuinely, it’s a quieter, more intimate stop rather than a resort-style destination — the trade-off is fewer visitors and a shorter transfer from the trekking park.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is this different from Lake Kivu itineraries?
Lake Burera and Lake Ruhondo sit right beside Volcanoes National Park itself, avoiding the further transfer Lake Kivu requires, and see far fewer visitors.
Are these lakes swimmable?
Generally yes, though we recommend checking current local guidance with your lodge, as conditions can vary.
Ready to Plan This Trip?
Tell us your dates and we’ll confirm permits and lodges within one business day. Get in touch to start planning.